Template notes – delete this row after reading:
- Use the blocks that you need to make your point clearly and concisely, and delete the blocks that you don’t need.
- Steps 3–5 repeat for each step in the how-to guide (typically 5–8 steps).
- The Pro Tip and Common Mistake callouts do not need to appear on every step — use them where they add the most value.
- The CTA at the end should always link to a Cash post within the same cluster to keep the 60/40 flow working.
Hook & Promise Introduction
[Name the problem. State the outcome. Make them feel seen.]
Example: “If you’ve been trying to [achieve desired result] for a while now and still not seeing progress, the problem probably isn’t your effort — it’s your approach. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to [complete the main task] step by step, even if you’re starting from scratch.”
Answer Box | What’s the Best Way to [keyword]?
[Repeat the keyword as a question, then give a short answer]
Example: “By using [Step 1 headline] then [Step 2 headline] and [Step 3 headline], you’ll avoid [Common mistake] and end up with [solution to problem].”
Prerequisites Box
A visually distinct box listing what the reader needs before they start. Natural spot for affiliate links.
Example:Before You Start, You’ll Need:
- [Tool or resource #1] — [brief reason why]
- [Tool or resource #2] — [brief reason why]
- [Any prior knowledge or setup required]
- About [X] minutes
Visual Aid Placeholder
Insert a screenshot, diagram, or short video clip here.
Example:[Image: Show what this step looks like in practice]
Step Heading + Instruction
Repeat this block for each step. Clear heading, what to do, why it matters.
Example:Step 1: [Action-Oriented Step Name] Start by [doing the first action]. The reason this matters is [brief explanation of why this step is important]. When you [complete this action], you’ll be setting yourself up for [specific benefit in the next step].
Step Heading + Instruction
Repeat this block for each step. Clear heading, what to do, why it matters.
Example:Step 2: [Action-Oriented Step Name] Continue by [doing the secibe action]. The reason this matters is [brief explanation of why this step is important]. When you [complete this action], you’ll be setting yourself up for [specific benefit in the next step].
Step Heading + Instruction
Repeat this block for each step. Clear heading, what to do, why it matters.
Example:Step 3: [Action-Oriented Step Name] Now we’ll go on to [doing the third action]. The reason this matters is [brief explanation of why this step is important]. When you [complete this action], you’ll be setting yourself up for [specific benefit in the next step].
Visual Aid Placeholder
Insert a screenshot, diagram, or short video clip here.
Example:[Image: Show what this step looks like in practice]
Pro Tip Callout Box
A styled callout box that adds expert insight and saves the reader time or effort.
Example:Pro Tip: Most people skip [a common shortcut or nuance] at this stage, but it’s actually what separates beginners from people who get results fast. Take an extra [X minutes] here and it will save you hours later.
Common Mistake Callout Box
A second callout style (use a different color) to flag what NOT to do.
Example:Watch Out: The most common mistake at this step is [specific error]. This leads to [negative consequence]. Instead, make sure you [correct action] before moving on.
Summary [TL:DR] [Key Takeaways
A brief recap of what was covered. Keep it to 2–3 sentences.
Example: “You now have the complete process for [achieving the main outcome]. Each step builds on the last, so follow them in order the first time through. Once you’ve done it once, the whole thing becomes second nature.”
Next Steps CTA
Direct them to the next logical post in your cluster — ideally a Cash post.
Example:Ready to go deeper? Now that you know how to [complete the task], the next step is [logical next action in the journey]. → Read: The Best [Tools/Products/Resources] for [Niche Topic] in 2025